Common name: Red-knobbed Starfish

General Information

The Red-knobbed Starfish, scientifically known as Protoreaster lincki, is a striking addition to any marine aquarium, thanks to its distinctive appearance and vibrant coloration. Its body is adorned with bright red knobs on a pale background, making it a unique and visually appealing species for hobbyists. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around the eastern coast of Africa, this species is often found in shallow tidal pools and seagrass beds.

The Red-knobbed Starfish plays an important role in its natural habitat by contributing to the ecosystem's health and balance. For aquarists, it serves as both a conversation starter and a fascinating subject for observation. Its unique appearance and relatively calm demeanor make it a popular choice for marine enthusiasts looking to add a touch of the exotic to their tanks.

Care

Caring for the Red-knobbed Starfish requires attention to water quality and tank conditions. They thrive in aquariums with stable salinity and temperature, as fluctuations can lead to stress and health issues. A tank with plenty of live rock and a sandy substrate is ideal, as these starfish enjoy exploring the tank and foraging for food.

While they are generally hardy, maintaining a clean environment with optimal water parameters is crucial for their well-being. Regular water changes and monitoring of salinity and temperature will help ensure their health and longevity.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Red-knobbed Starfish are omnivorous scavengers, feeding on detritus, algae, and small invertebrates. In captivity, they can be offered a varied diet that includes meaty foods like shrimp and mussels, as well as algae wafers and other prepared foods designed for marine invertebrates.

Feeding should be done every few days, with portions that they can consume in a short period to prevent water quality issues. Observing their feeding behavior will help determine the appropriate amount and frequency.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Red-knobbed Starfish is generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tank mates. However, they should not be housed with aggressive species that may harm them. They are best suited to a peaceful community tank with other non-aggressive invertebrates and fish.

While they are not toxic, they can pose a threat to small, slow-moving invertebrates. Care should be taken to ensure compatibility with other tank inhabitants.

Reproduction

In captivity, breeding the Red-knobbed Starfish is challenging and rarely successful. They reproduce sexually, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column. The larvae are planktonic and require specialized conditions to survive and develop, making captive breeding efforts difficult.

Health and Common Issues

Red-knobbed Starfish can live for several years in captivity with proper care. They are susceptible to stress from poor water quality and sudden changes in environmental conditions. Maintaining stable water parameters and a clean tank environment is essential to prevent health issues.

When selecting a Red-knobbed Starfish, look for individuals with vibrant coloration and intact knobs. Avoid those with signs of deterioration or damage, as these can be indicators of poor health.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Red-knobbed Starfish includes shallow tidal pools and seagrass beds in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around the eastern coast of Africa. They prefer environments with plenty of hiding spots and a sandy substrate, which can be replicated in a home aquarium.